5 Expensive Gifts Your Partner Doesn’t Want (And What To Buy Instead)

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Nobody wants to be that person — the one who blows their budget on notoriously expensive gifts no one actually wants. And yet, you’ll still see couples make this mistake during the holidays.

“Couples often make substantial financial missteps when selecting gifts, investing in items that ultimately become expensive burdens rather than meaningful expressions of affection,” said Kevin Shahnazari, founder and CEO of FinlyWealth.

Here are some costly gifts, according to experts, that frequently end up as financial and spatial liabilities–and what to get instead.

High-End Fitness Equipment

According to Shahnazari, many partners mistakenly invest in expensive exercise machines, like Peloton bikes or elaborate home gym setups. “These purchases typically range from $1,500 to $4,000 and quickly transform into costly clothing racks.” 

He noted that the average home exercise equipment becomes unused within six months, representing a significant financial drain.

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“Instead, consider giving a flexible fitness membership or personalized workout sessions that adapt to your partner’s actual lifestyle and preferences,” he said.

Luxury Watches

On a similar note, designer timepieces may seem like prestigious gifts, but they often become impractical investments.

“A $5,000 to $10,000 luxury watch rarely provides proportional utility or joy,” said Shahnazari. “Many partners find these items more stressful to maintain than enjoyable to wear.”

He said a more thoughtful alternative is a high-quality, versatile watch with timeless design that matches your partner’s personal style, potentially saving thousands while delivering genuine appreciation.

Smart Home Appliances With Limited Functionality 

“Advanced smart home devices, like connected refrigerators or overly complicated kitchen gadgets, frequently become white elephants,” Shahnazari said. “These technological investments, often costing between $2,000 and $6,000, typically offer minimal practical improvement over standard appliances.”

Instead, he recommended partners focus on gifts that genuinely simplify daily life, such as subscription services or experiences that create lasting memories.

Luxury Handbags and Accessories

Designer handbags represent another financial pitfall, with prices ranging from $1,500 to $10,000, said Shahnazari. “These items often become storage challenges, rarely matching the recipient’s actual lifestyle or practical needs.”

A more strategic approach, he explained, involves understanding your partner’s genuine preferences and selecting accessories that seamlessly integrate into their existing wardrobe and daily routine.

Exotic Vacation Packages

Surprise vacation packages might seem romantic, but they can create significant financial and logistical stress.

“Elaborate trips costing $5,000 to $15,000 may not align with your partner’s schedule, preferences or comfort levels,” said Shahnazari.

Instead, he advised collaborating on travel plans, allowing joint decision-making and shared excitement that respects both financial boundaries and personal preferences.

The Bottom Line

“The most valuable gift transcends monetary value, focusing instead on understanding your partner’s genuine desires and lifestyle needs,” said Shahnazari. 

He added that strategic gift-giving requires empathy, careful observation and financial mindfulness. “True intimacy in relationships is measured by thoughtful understanding, not the price tag of a gift.”